Salman Khan is preparing to release his next film, Battle Of Galwan, following his 2025 movie, Sikandar. The war drama, which has received positive attention for showcasing Salman Khan in a fresh role, had fans and the industry eager for a possible Eid release next year. However, the makers have confirmed that Battle Of Galwan will not launch during Eid in 2026.
Conflicting Film Releases Influence Decision Against Eid Debut
One insider shared with Bollywood Hungama that multiple films are already set to release on March 19, 2026, which coincides with the Eid period. These include the Yash-starrer Toxic, the comedy Dhamaal 4, and Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s romantic drama Love & War featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal. The source explained,
“The makers are not looking at releasing the film on Eid. This is because three films are already scheduled for release on March 19, 2026 – Yash-starer Toxic, the comic caper Dhamaal 4 and Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s intense romantic drama Love & War, starring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal. Love & War might not make it on Eid and even if we take this film out, two other movies have already taken the slot. Salman is fair in such matters and hence, doesn’t want to announce Battle Of Galwan as an Eid release at this stage.”
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January or June 2026 Considered for Battle Of Galwan Release
The makers are currently considering two possible windows for the film’s release: January or June 2026. Factors such as many competing releases during the months in between and the timing of Ramzan, starting in the third week of February, influenced this decision. The insider added,
“As of now, the makers are considering two months to release Battle Of Galwan. One is January and the other is June. There are too many releases in between these two months and the holy month of Ramzan will also commence from the third week of February. This is how these two months are in consideration. The makers will make a decision soon after which the release date will be officially announced.”
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Completion and Post-Production Timeline Impacting Release Date Choice
Another source familiar with the schedule mentioned that the shoot is planned to finish within 55-60 days. This timeline could allow a January release if post-production finishes swiftly. Otherwise, June is expected to be locked in as the backup release window. The source noted,
“The makers plan to finish the shoot in 55-60 days. Therefore, there’s a possibility that they can still make it in January though it’s just six months away. In case the post-production takes time, then June will be locked.”
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Rationale Behind Skipping Bakri Eid for Film’s Premiere
When asked why Bakri Eid, falling on May 27, 2026, was not considered for the release, a source explained the timing conflicts with another major event – the Indian Premier League (IPL), which ends on May 31. Additionally, Salman Khan’s star power means the film can succeed without relying on holiday releases. The source clarified,
“They are probably not looking at Bakri Eid as it falls on May 27 while the IPL next year ends on May 31. Anyway, Salman is a bona fide star. He doesn’t need a festival or holiday release. If the film is exciting and stars him in a massy role, nothing can stop Battle Of Galwan from becoming a success even if it hits cinemas on a non-holiday.”
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Anticipation Builds as Battle Of Galwan’s Release Approaches
With major actors such as Salman Khan leading the cast, and supporting roles including Ankur Bhatia, Battle Of Galwan is expected to be a significant war drama in Indian cinema. While the exact release date remains undecided, selecting either January or June 2026 avoids direct clashes with other high-profile movies and events. This strategic timing is likely intended to maximize audience reach and box office potential.
As the makers complete filming and post-production work, fans and industry watchers will be keenly awaiting the official release announcement. Battle Of Galwan’s performance will contribute to Salman Khan’s legacy in cinematic war dramas, offering him a chance to portray a powerful and compelling role outside his usual Eid blockbuster schedule.
